Botox remains one of the most popular aesthetic treatments in the UK. With an estimated 900,000 injections carried out annually in our country, we’re pretty taken by the stuff.
But our desire for less invasive, naturally-sourced approaches to skin is also increasing. And the fact that skincare products, such as the best face moisturisers, are becoming more and more advanced can only be a win if you seek needle-free results for less money and less downtime.
One such skincare ingredient that’s catapulted in popularity is peptides. Google Trends saw a 37% increase in global searches for peptides between December 2024 and February 2025, and they continue to rise. Neuropeptides, specifically Myoxinol, are having a moment. Here’s what you need to know – and why it’s being hailed as the new alternative to Botox injections.
What is the 'neuropeptide' Myoxinol and how does it work?
“Myoxinol fits into a wider trend of using neuropeptides in skincare, which aim to modulate nerve signalling or muscle activity in a subtle and topical way (without needles or injectables),” explains cosmetic doctor Dr Emmaline Ashley.
“Other peptides like argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-8) and syn-ake, a synthetic tripeptide that mimics a peptide found in snake venom, are also making waves for similar ‘relaxing’ effects on facial muscles,” she adds. “These peptides are especially appealing to people looking for a gentler approach to anti-ageing.”
A trademarked skincare ingredient, it’s a botanical peptide derived from the hibiscus plant (Hibiscus esculentus), and is said to work by “reducing muscle cell contraction in the skin, mimicking the ‘Botox-like’ mechanism of action – but without the use of injectable neuromodulators,” explains Dr Ashley.
“The idea is that by inhibiting facial muscle contractions, the appearance of dynamic lines (like crow’s feet or frown lines) is softened over time. In addition to these effects, Myoxinol is known for its antioxidant properties, helping to reduce and prevent oxidative stress to the skin, caused by environmental aggressors such as pollution in the air.
How effective is Myoxinol as a Botox 'alternative'?
We should always approach these kinds of claims (that directly compare topical ingredients with injectable treatments) with caution. “It is not a replacement for injectable neurotoxins,” says Dr Sonia Khorana, cosmetic doctor and dermatology expert. “It just won’t offer the same dramatic and long-lasting effects.”
She continues: “Botulinum toxin (the active ingredient in Botox) functions by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). ACh is a signal that tells a muscle to contract and, by stopping that signal, the toxin cuts the communication between the nerve and a muscle. Skincare isn’t going to do this.”
Dr Ashley also notes that, while results from trials have been promising, they are still in their infancy and “haven’t been substantiated by large, robust clinical trials.”
That said, our experts agree neuropeptides like Myoxinol can be a perfect at-home complement to treatments like Botox when used within your skincare routine. “I would recommend using neuropeptides like this in conjunction with injectable neurotoxins,” notes Dr Khorana. “It can help enhance the effect since they also improve collagen production."
Dr Ashley adds that Myoxinol could also be “a valuable adjunct for those looking to extend the results of their injectable treatments or for individuals who are not quite ready for needles.”
Who should – and shouldn't – try it?
Myoxinol can be used as a preventative measure or, for more mature skin, alone, or in conjunction with injectables. If you are hesitant about injectables or passionate about science-backed, smart skincare, it may also be a great option for you.
Experts agree this is a generally well-tolerated ingredient for most, but there are certain important footnotes. “There are currently no major safety concerns flagged in the literature, but as with any topical, those with known allergies to botanical extracts (particularly hibiscus) should proceed with care,” says Dr Ashley.
“Also, due to the limited modern clinical data, I’d avoid recommending it as a substitute for proven clinical treatments in individuals with more established or deeper lines.”
Neuropeptide skincare products to try
RRP: £165 for 50ml
Perhaps the most well-known modern formulation that contains the patented Myoxinol, Irene Forte’s Hibiscus Night Cream is a standout in this list. Backed by over 40 years of research and the expertise of Dr. Francesca Ferri, the cream performed exceptionally well in clinical trials, and contains a blend of green pea polypeptides, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides (as well as its star ingredient) to hydrate, smooth and lift.
RRP: £85 for 30ml
Describing itself as 'revolutionary cosmeceutical-grade facial muscle relaxant,’ New Zealand’s Emma Lewisham has its own ‘Botox in a bottle’ style product, which harnesses the power of acetyl hexapeptide-8, another popular neuropeptide of the moment.
RRP: £130 for 30ml
SkinCeuticals’ newest exciting scientific development comes in the form of its P-Tiox Neuro-Peptide Serum, which contains 2% hexapeptide and 2% dipeptide. The brand notes that the formula is a great complementary product for injectables: "When paired together, anti-wrinkle injectables and P-Tiox work synergistically to reduce wrinkles through multiple mechanisms, thereby reducing contraction lines on the face."
RRP: £9.20 for 30ml
An affordable favourite that uses neuropeptide Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, The Ordinary’s Argireline Solution 10% directly targets expression lines. For under £10, this is the perfect complement to pricey in-clinic treatments.
RRP: £79 for 15ml
Another product that uses acetyl hexapeptide-8, Murad’s corrector can be used directly on areas the user is most concerned about. Apply it to the forehead, or around brow lines and nose and mouth lines.
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